Pioneer TX-9800
Pioneer TX-9800 is a top-of-the-line vintage stereo FM/AM tuner from Pioneer's famous blue series.
The front end is constructed with a 5-gang variable capacitor and three dual-gate MOS FETs arranged in two stages. Five 10.7MHz ceramic filters are used, resulting in impressive selectivity and reception performance. An automatic phase control (APC) circuit is included to safeguard against frequency drift. The PA3001-A is used as the FM quadrature detector, followed by the PA1002-A for preamplification and FM muting control, while the PA1001-A serves as the stereo decoder. Pilot signal cancellation is performed by a negative-feedback PLL without compromising high-frequency response.
A unique feature of the blue series is its Touch Sensor tuning system. Special circuitry detects when the tuning dial is touched and enables the APC to lock onto the optimum tuning point as soon as the hand is removed. The TUNE indicator lights during the search when the optimum point is reached, while the LOCKED indicator confirms that the APC is engaged and the frequency is locked.
An output level control is included, along with an MPX noise filter and Wide or Narrow band selectivity options. An adjustable Touch Sensor sensitivity selector and an FM de-emphasis switch are provided on the rear panel.
The visual appearance is elegant and refined, fitting perfectly with other components from the blue series. The soundstage is excellent, exactly what you would expect from a tuner of this class.
Manufacturer: Pioneer
Status: Active company
Official website: global.pioneer
General Specifications
Antenna Input: 75Ω & 300ΩFM Tuning Range: 88.0MHz-108.0MHz
Usable Sensitivity: 8.8dBf
Quieting Sensitivity (50dB): 36.1dBf
Signal-to-Noise Ratio (85dBf): 80dB
Total Harmonic Distortion (1kHz): 0.07%
Frequency Response (20Hz-15KHz): +0.2,-0.5dB
Stereo Separation (1KHz): 55dB
Stereo and Muting Threshold: 19.2dBf
Dimensions (WHD): 453×155×390mm
Weight: 9.3kg
Produced: 1979-1981
Initial price: $450
Factory Specification Sheet
Factory specification images are sourced directly from the device's original service manual or user manual. These documents are produced by the manufacturer and provide authoritative information on the product's specifications.
FM Tuner
Measurements of the tuner section were performed using an FM signal generator, with its output fed directly into the antenna input. AM measurements were not conducted.
